Protix explores South Korean insect facility with US$1M backing

SOUTH KOREA – Protix, the Dutch pioneer in insect-based protein production, is exploring the feasibility of establishing a Black Soldier Fly (BSF) protein production facility in South Korea. 

The initiative, undertaken in collaboration with a local partner, has received €1 (approximately US$1.1) million in development capital from Invest International, a Netherlands-backed investment firm, to conduct a feasibility study.

Founded in 2009, Protix has been at the forefront of sustainable protein innovation, using BSF larvae to convert food waste and agri-food byproducts into high-quality proteins, oils, and natural fertilizers. 

These eco-friendly ingredients are used in animal feed, pet food, and aquaculture, offering a low-emission alternative to conventional protein sources like fishmeal and soy.

“We’re inspired by insects’ natural role in ecosystems — nothing goes to waste in nature. Insects transform organic leftovers into valuable nutrients, completing the circle. We want to bring that circularity back into our modern food system,” said Stijn Harms, Director of Projects & Technology at Protix.

Why South Korea?

South Korea presents an ideal environment for Protix’s expansion due to its highly advanced food waste management system. 

Over 15,000 tons of food waste are collected and processed daily from households, restaurants, supermarkets, and food service companies. 

Unlike the EU, where regulatory restrictions prevent food waste from being used as insect feed, South Korea permits food waste from commercial sources to be safely converted into insect feed.

“In South Korea, two important factors come together: the regulations are more favorable and the food waste infrastructure is highly advanced. The country places great importance on making full use of all the valuable nutrients that enter the country, which is why they have developed such a well-organized food waste management system, making it a great match for Protix,” said Harms.

If realised, Protix’s proposed facility in South Korea would be twice the size of its current site in the Netherlands. 

It is expected to upcycle up to 130,000 tons of food waste annually, transforming waste streams and agri-food byproducts into sustainable protein, oil, and fertiliser. 

This initiative aligns with global efforts to create a circular food system and reduce reliance on traditional protein sources.

Expanding innovative technologies like insect-based protein production into new markets requires technical expertise and substantial upfront investment. These early-stage costs include feasibility studies, legal groundwork, and technical design, which the Invest International backing will cover.

Over the past two years, this investment firm has provided €48 million (US$51.9 million) to support Dutch entrepreneurs working on alternative protein solutions. 

By funding projects like Protix’s South Korea expansion, Invest International aims to leverage Dutch food technology to address global food security challenges.

“Dutch food technology is highly regarded, and we have a unique value proposition. Institutions like TU Delft and Wageningen University and strong infrastructure hubs such as Food Valley and The Protein Community, foster the growth of companies developing innovative solutions. These solutions help reduce our carbon footprint and decrease reliance on animal proteins,” said Raymond Beimers, Head of Agri-Food at Invest International.

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.